back burner

UK: /ˌbækˈbɜː^rnə^r/

WordReference Random House Learner's Dictionary of American English © 2026

ˈback ˈburn•er, n. [uncountable] Idioms

1. on the back burner, set aside to be dealt with later:
   The issue was put on the back burner until after the election.

WordReference Random House Unabridged Dictionary of American English © 2026

back′ burn′er, 

1. a condition of low priority or temporary deferment (usually used in the phrase on the back burner):
   Put other issues on the back burner until after the election.

• from the custom in cooking of placing pots not requiring immediate attention toward the rear of the stove 1945–50